If you need electrical work done at your home in Irving, TX, it’s important to understand what the professionals you’re talking to actually do. There’s a big difference between an electrician, general contractor and electrical contractor.

If you are in need of an expert to perform electrical work, it’s important to understand the different job titles that you might come across. For example, what is the difference between an electrician, contractor and electrical contractor? The team at Tioga Contractors in Irving, TX, is here to help you tell the difference.

What’s an Electrician Versus a General Contractor?

Both electricians and general contractors may perform some of the same functions. However, a general contractor is typically responsible for a large renovation that involves several rooms of your home. Some general contractors are also electricians. However, the two roles entail different skills and tasks. A general contractor can perform simple electrical jobs. However, if you need a master electrician, it’s important to hire the right team for the job.

Master electricians are experienced in performing rigorous testing on older or newly installed electrical systems. If you need an electrician, it’s important to ask for documentation that shows their license is current and they have the appropriate insurance to work in your home. Additionally, electricians need to understand the NEC code and state and local regulations to help them avoid fines and safety issues.

An electrical contractor can perform large jobs on residential and commercial buildings. So, suppose you need to install or replace the complete electrical system, including the subpanels, lighting and GFCI outlets. In that case, it might make sense to go with an electrician who is also a contractor like those available at Tioga Contractors.

When Would You Choose a General Contractor?

A general contractor describes someone proficient in several trades. However, when it comes to electrical work, you need someone fully qualified to work on your electrical panel box, wiring and anything else that might go wrong. A general contractor is fine if you need someone to switch out a few light bulbs as part of a larger renovation project. However, general contractors don’t typically specialize in complex electrical installations, repairs or replacements.

When Do I Need a Master Certified Electrician?

Ideally, it’s important to have the highest qualification possible for every electrical job. Of all the things you have done to your home, getting the electrical system installed correctly should take top priority. Avoid fire hazards and ensure you have enough power to run all your electrical devices and appliances by hiring a master certified electrician with years of experience and training under their caps.

All of our electrical contractors are also licensed electricians, which has the following benefits for you and other customers:

If you want the job done right, you have to hire the right person to do it. Master electricians represent the industry’s peak. So, if they are also contractors, you get the best of both worlds. It’s worth it to spend the money on someone who has the proper training and experience to complete the work in your home. Here are additional benefits to hiring master electricians, especially if they double as contractors:

• High-quality products. When you hire us as your electrical contractor, we only use top-notch products and equipment to install wiring and other electrical components in your home.
• Access to years of experience. In order to become an electrician and contractor, professionals must put in years of experience as an apprentice, journeyman and master electrician. Additionally, they have to understand electrical design and heavy-duty installation work, something that general contractors and electricians focusing on specific areas cannot provide. If you need your home completely rewired, you want a master certified electrician who is also an electrical contractor. This will give you the best possible outcome.
• Insured work. It’s important to ask about the types of insurance held by any electrician you hire. You want someone with enough insurance to protect their workers should an injury occur on your property. However, you also need a master electrician with general liability coverage in case of damage to your home. Otherwise, you may have to rely on your homeowner’s insurance if anything goes wrong.

When Do You Need an Electrical Contractor?

These contractors provide comprehensive services for offices, homes and industrial buildings. Depending on their specializations, they can design and install complex electrical systems. If you’re looking for a licensed and experienced company to complete a major overhaul at your home, it’s important to understand the different classifications of these professionals, as follows:

• Outside: This type of contractor can install light fixtures, electrical outlets and other power sources for your outdoor living space.
• Inside: other contractors only work on electrical systems specific to your home’s interior. This would include everything within your main living space, basement, addict and attached buildings.
• General: If you need someone who can work on both indoor and outdoor systems, a company that provides both sets of skills.

The considerations for outdoor electrical work include understanding how poor weather affects your installation or repair work.

How Are Electrical Contractors and Electricians Different

It may be hard to understand the difference because the rules are very similar. However, these contractors have greater responsibilities that include:

• Installing, maintaining electrical systems
• Project management outside of electrical responsibilities
• Labor management, training and recruitment

Due to greater responsibilities, electrical contractors may have far different workdays than electricians. So, their activities can vary depending on their specialty and what stage of the project they’ve been called to handle.

Contact Tioga Contractors today to discuss your electrical needs for larger projects in Irving, TX, and the surrounding communities.

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A regular person could wonder if there’s any actual difference between an electrical contractor and an electrician. This is mostly because the work each professional performs may seem similar to them. Below, we will point out the differences between each one and their importance to the electrical and construction industry in Irving, TX. So, if you’re curious about the differences between each one of these pros, read on and find out what they are and what they do.

Defining an Electrical Contractor

In a few simple words, an electrical contractor is a company or businessperson that carries out specialized electrical tasks for the construction industry. Oftentimes, these tasks are directly related to the design and installation of electrical systems, including their maintenance and repair. These professionals are also tasked with the responsibility of making sure these electrical installations work appropriately in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. Additionally, their primary responsibility is that all state and federal safety requirements are followed in each installation.

What Is the Most Important Task of an Electrical Contractor?

As we have already mentioned, an electrical contractor can carry out a large number of tasks, some of which will depend exclusively on the area they have specialized in. Some of the most important tasks performed by these professionals start with the design of a certain project, which includes making plans that are highly detailed. This work is possibly one of the most important tasks that must be performed before construction even begins. Once the design and the budget are approved, they must get all the necessary permits and required insurance policies in order to start working on the project.

What Is the Main Difference Between an Electrical Contractor and an Electrician?

The main difference between these two professionals can be hard to distinguish, but an electrician is usually trained in the performance of electrical work and has obtained a license to do so. In many cases, an electrician will work independently or can be hired by a construction company or a contractor. On the other hand, the term “contractor” almost always refers to an Irving, TX company or business itself, while the term “electrician” refers to a person.

For an electrician to become licensed, they must study at a trade school and then become an apprentice. Once their hands-on training in the repair and installation of electrical systems is finished, they can become licensed and start working as journeymen. At this point, an electrician can continue their formal education in order to become a master of the trade. They can also choose a specialty, which means they have to decide whether they will work with high voltage or low voltage systems and installations, among other things.

With this in mind, it becomes easy to differentiate between an electrician and an electrical contractor because the first is a person and the second is a company.

What Skills and Traits Does an Electrical Contractor Need?

In order to become a successful contractor, there are several necessary skills an electrician working for a contractor company must have, including the following:

• Healthy color vision – Because the majority of electrical systems require color-coded wires, contractors and electricians must be able to distinguish between them in order to be able to work safely while producing high-quality results. This doesn’t mean that electricians and contractors can’t be color-blind, especially because there are ways to make up for the lack by using labeled wiring and relying on numerical values. Even so, having a healthy color vision is one of the most important physical requirements to be able to work in the electrical field, so color blindness can be an almost impossible barrier to cross when an electrician is looking to become a contractor.
• Excellent communication skills – Contractors in all fields should be good communicators. This is especially true in the electrical sector, where communication skills are necessary in order to convey instructions and expectations in a clear and professional manner. Whether they are talking to clients or giving instructions to their employees and colleagues, communication skills are a must-have for contractors.
• Physical fitness and a high endurance capacity – One of the most important characteristics of contractors is they must be physically fit, strong and able to spend long hours standing on their feet. They must also be able to lift heavy objects and equipment while moving around to work in places that are hard to reach, as well as constantly climbing up and down ladders, so their physical capacity should always be in optimal condition in order to perform their tasks adequately and safely. This makes physical health one of a contractor’s biggest assets.
• Great attention to detail – Being able to pay attention to all types of details will ensure a contractor performs high-quality work, as well as perform safely. Keep in mind that electrical work involves the use of equipment that can be dangerous, so contractors should pay great attention to any issues that can create hazards at job sites.
• General understanding of business management – Because many electricians choose to run their own contracting business, a general understanding of business management is one of the most important traits they should have. This includes having basic knowledge of accounting, management of human resources, budgeting and estimating the cost of projects. To the layman, this trait may not seem to be related to electrical work, but to a contractor, they can be the turning point between a highly successful business and a failing company.
• Fine motor skills and a high level of dexterity – Because of the very nature of electrical work, contractors should have good motor skills and a high level of confidence to be able to handle their tools and equipment in a safe manner, including wire strippers, pliers, power tools and much more.

Are You Looking For The Best Electrical Services Provider? Look No Further!

When you are looking for the best electrical contractor in Irving, TX you should look no farther than Tioga Contractors, the foremost electrical contracting company in the area. So, don’t hesitate and give them a call today to find out everything they can do to get your project done professionally and with the highest quality possible!

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You store your fresh foods or frozen foods in your refrigerator and bring them out to prepare delightful meals and cherished recipes for your loved ones. A well-functioning refrigerator is an essential part of any good kitchen. Like any other home appliance, though, your refrigerator may develop problems that need repair.

One or more of several common refrigerator problems may occur in which care your best bet is to have an Irving, TX, electrical contractor fix them. In this article, we discuss some common refrigerator problems so that you know when to call an electrician.

1. Your Refrigerator Leaks Water

Common as this refrigerator problem may be, it is still alarming for homeowners in Irving, TX. Often, this issue occurs as a result of a frozen or clogged water supply line, or a blocked defrost drain. Kitchen debris, such as food particles, can block the refrigerator’s defrost drain located inside the freezer.

You can use warm water to flush the drain from the inside, though excess debris may require manual removal. Find the defrost drain hose on the back of the unity and remove any accumulated debris by cleaning it with hot water and soap.

If you suspect that the water supply line is frozen or clogged, close the shut-off valve and unplug the refrigerator. Check if there are any tears or breaks on the water supply line. If so, it may need replacement. If something other than ice is clogging the supply line, call an electrical contractor to inspect and fix it.

2. Your Refrigerator Runs Constantly

The unit running or cycling too frequently is among the most common refrigerator problems. Your refrigerator must run properly to keep your food cool and fresh, but the unit can be extremely noisy if it runs constantly. More crucially, it can drive up your energy bill because the refrigerator is among the appliances in your Irving, TX, home that consume the most power.

The build-up of kitchen debris and dust around the condenser coils of the refrigerator is the most common cause of the unit running too frequently. The coils are usually located at the bottom of the refrigerator. Before you try to access and clean them, make sure you cut power to the unit.

If cleaning the coils doesn’t resolve the problem, check if the temperature setting is too low. Extremely low temperatures require a refrigerator to run frequently to maintain that level. Adjust the temperature setting and monitor the cycling. If the problem persists, call an electrical contractor .

3. Your Refrigerator Is Too Noisy

The sound coming from your refrigerator should not be disruptive. A noisy unit is a sign that one of its fans may not be working properly. Most refrigerators feature an evaporator fan and a condenser fan. The evaporator fan sucks in the air over the evaporator coils of the freezer as the compressor runs, whereas the condenser fan cools the condenser coils.

These fans run concurrently. If one of the motors powering them has issues, your refrigerator may get loud. If you suspect that this may be the problem, you can have an electrical contractor inspect the motors to see if they’re broken and need replacement.

4. Your Refrigerator Is Warm

Excessive heat from your refrigerator can be particularly alarming considering it is designed to keep things cold. If your unit starts to become warm, it needs emergency repair. Condenser coil problems are the likely cause of a warm refrigerator. Call an electrical contractor to check if the condenser coils need cleaning and if the condenser motor fan is functioning well. A warm unit can be a complex problem that only a skilled and experienced electrical contractor can handle.

5. There’s Ice Buildup In Your Freezer

The ideal storage space for ice is the refrigerator’s freezer, but there is a limit beyond which the ice build-up must not exceed. Ice build-up may occur if you leave the freezer open for too long, which increases the freezer’s humidity levels. A broken freezer seal may also cause the same problem in which case you should replace it. Seek the help of an electrical contractor if these solutions fail.

6. The Water Dispenser Doesn’t Work

Recent refrigerator models often come with a built-in water dispenser from which you can easily get fresh, cold water. The water dispenser may, however, fail for several reasons. If the water tub inside the freezer becomes frozen, it may block the flow of water through the dispenser. Thankfully, you can remove and thaw the tub to restore water flow.

A defective water inlet valve may also cause the dispenser to stop working by blocking the supply of water into the dispenser. Low water pressure is another common problem that hinders water from flowing through the dispenser’s inlet valve. Contact an electrical contractor if you encounter these water dispenser issues.

7. Your Energy Bill Is Way Up

If your energy bill suddenly increases, your refrigerator may be the culprit. It is one of your home’s most energy-hungry appliances, and its efficiency has a significant effect on your home’s total energy consumption. You can use an energy usage meter to measure how much energy your refrigerator consumes and compare the result to the manufacturer’s specifications. If the unit uses a lot more energy than it should, it may increase your energy bill.

Compared to newer models, old refrigerators tend to use more energy to maintain the same temperature levels. Professional repairs can mitigate this problem to a degree. Ultimately, though, replacing an outdated refrigerator is the best way to keep your energy bills manageable. An experienced and trustworthy electrician can recommend some models that fit your needs and budget.

Refrigerator Repair Services You Can Rely On

A well-functioning refrigerator is a staple of the modern kitchen. Your refrigerator will serve you satisfactorily for years if you maintain it well and trust a skilled, experienced electrical contractor with the repairs if any of the issues we have discussed arise. Tioga Contractors can handle repairs for all refrigerators as we have the experience, skills, equipment and spare parts. If your refrigerator has issues, contact us today to schedule a free inspection and a lasting solution.

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Electrical inspections are mandatory in businesses to ensure the safety of residents, employees, and clients. The evaluations are a thorough assessment of the entire electrical system in a commercial property. An electrical inspector certified by the International Code Council or International Association of Electrical Association is in charge of the inspections to ensure the electrical components comply with the electrical codes. The codes are standards that an electrical contractor should comply with when installing the wiring system in commercial buildings in Irving, TX.

Electrical inspections are essential when purchasing new business premises and building a new commercial property. The evaluations are also vital for renovated buildings to ensure the electrical system is safe to prevent electrical accidents for employees and clients.

Business property owners or managers can schedule the electrical assessments when buying a new heavy appliance for the company to assess the risks and eliminate them. Most commercial property owners overlook inspections when bringing new machinery for their business until they suspect an imminent issue arising from using it.

The evaluations by licensed and certified electrical contractors include:

• Checking the wattage of bulbs and security lights
• Inspecting the outlets in terms of condition and functionality
• Checking switches and ground systems
• Testing the functioning of protectors such as ground fault circuit interpreters, surge protectors, arc fault circuit interpreters, and circuit breakers.
• Examining carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
• Inspecting the electrical panels, wiring system, and outdoor electrical systems

Why Inspections Are Vital

It might seem like a long process to include electrical inspections after completing your new commercial building or acquiring one. But, the electrical system evaluation in your business property is something you should not skip for any reason whatsoever. It is wise to schedule an inspection for the following reasons.

Safety

All 50 States in the United States comply with the National Electrical Code for safety reasons. The standards ensure the electrical designs and installations are safe to protect offices and other commercial premises from electrical hazards such as fires, shocks, arc faults, and ground faults.

Inspections of the installed wiring system are essential for the electrical inspector to identify any wrong wiring problems that might pose a threat to stock, clients, properties, and employees. The electrician in Irving, TX, checks the safe operation of all the electrical components in the office to pinpoint electrical mistakes in time.

In old buildings, the inspectors inspect the entire electrical system to identify outdated, fraying, loose, and open wires for rewiring to prevent shocks, electrocutions, and fires. An electrician should install new and advanced electrical wiring in an old building if the detailed report recommends it before new employers and employees move the building.

System Efficiency

Having a qualified and skilled electrical contractor inspect the electrical system in your commercial premises is also important because it identifies malfunctioning parts of the electrical system. Electrical components might be failing, outdated, or damaged, affecting the peak efficiency of the electric system.

After the evaluations, the electrical professionals use the report to replace and repair the faulty components of the electrical system, keeping arc faults, electricians, surges, and electrical fires at bay.

The contractor can also advise you to change or increase the outlets if you have many heavy pieces of machinery running in your company to avert overloading circuits that can start a fire.

Compliance with the Codes

An electrician installs the electrical system with the guidance of the national electrical code and state and local standards. The professionals follow the building codes in Texas that describe safety standards with specifications for electrical systems.

Electrical inspections of your commercial building ensure the wiring, conduits, outlets, and protective devices installed are the ones the National Fire Protection Association recommends for offices and commercial buildings. The codes keep changing or evolving because of technological advancements and electrical needs.

An electrical contractor should always know of the new code and standards. The professionals can access the updated set standards online before installing the electrical systems in business premises to ensure the electrical materials reflect the evolving technologies in line with research and development.

Save Money and Property

Another reason electrical evaluations are essential for commercial buildings is cost-related. Bad wiring, outdated electrical panels, and systems, and frayed and loose wiring systems are dangerous in any building because of the electrical hazards they attract.

A certified electrician carries out thorough inspections to save money by saying prevention is better than cure. With extensive evaluations of all the electrical components in a commercial building, your company is safe from fires that can burn everything and cause severe burns and deaths.

Therefore, identifying the problem early and hiring an electrical contractor to fix them is better than waiting for an electrical fire that will leave you without a company to run or suffering from the aftermath of a fire.

Protect Appliances from Malfunctioning

Commercial buildings also experience surges and electrical issues due to heavy storms, lightning strikes, and down power lines. Having a certified electrical contractor check the functioning of the whole house surge protectors during inspections is one way of protecting your appliances and machines from damages that will be costly to repair.

In a nutshell, electrical inspections can be smooth when a professional electrician skillfully installs the wiring and the electrical system, which is not the case with a quack. The final report of electrical work done by an unprofessional and unskilled electrician can have recommendations for work to be re-done for the safety of your commercial property.

Your Reliable Electrical Contractor in Irving, TX

If you want an electrical contractor to carry out electrical inspections in your office or commercial property, call Tioga Contractors. Our family-owned and operated business services commercial and residential clients in Texas and the surrounding areas.

We work with trained and certified electrical contractors who have the expertise in addressing all your electrical problems. Our electricians are also available 24/7, 365 days a year, for prompt emergency services.

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In an age where we are dependent on technology like computers and electrical equipment to perform our daily jobs, we must have an electrical system that won’t let us down. These days, with the constant use of appliances and the prevalence of computers in homes and businesses alike, it’s crucial that our power systems can handle the load; however, there are also hazards to be aware of when running electrical equipment and components. Due to the use of electricity in our lives, if malfunctions occur or something goes wrong within our electrical systems if handled by unqualified electrical contractors, this could be a potential cause for the fire. To avoid fires created by electrical failures, it is essential to have electrical professionals in Arlington, TX, check for potential problems. Stay away from electrical fires by knowing their causes and how to prevent them.

Take Care of Your Electrical Wiring

It’s essential to take care of your electrical wiring because electrical fires can be devastating in many ways. Electrical fires spread incredibly quickly and often create a lot of smoke and toxic fumes inhaled by people trying to escape the blaze. They also can start other fires by igniting flammable materials nearby.

Many homeowners don’t realize that their electrical wiring has been dangerously modified by previous owners or even themselves over time. An improperly installed circuit breaker or a frayed wire in an older building might not show any signs of malfunction during regular use. Still, it will become apparent once a significant load (such as air conditioning) is placed on it. Only certified electrical contractors should handle your electrical wiring.

Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) monitor the flow of electricity in an outlet and shut off power if it detects an imbalance in the current. Having electrical professionals helps prevent electrical fires because most surges happen due to water entering an outlet or appliance cord or faulty equipment. The GFCI should cut the power before a dangerous temperature is reached that could cause melting wires or other damage.

Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens have outlets that should have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). GFCIs protect you from electrocution; they shut off power if they sense that current is leaking from an appliance. These outlets don’t cost very much, and installation isn’t complex, so it’s worth the effort to add them where necessary.

Use Safety Switches

Residual current devices (RCDs), also known as safety switches, are designed to shut off your power supply if there is any fault in your electrical system. Electrical fires are one of the most common causes of house fires. In fact, according to research by fire services, electrical faults have been the leading cause of house fires.

In Arlington, TX, electrical fires can be caused by several factors, including bad wiring, dodgy appliances (like kettle cords), or overloaded power boards. However, there’s something you can do to help protect your home and family from electrical fires: install safety switches.

Safety switches detect faults in your electrical system and instantly turn off the circuit to detect an electrical current leakage or surge. While they can’t prevent a fire from starting, they can shut off the electricity supply before it reaches dangerous levels – and that can save lives. Licensed electrical contractors should install them.

Check for Frayed or Damaged Power Cords

Check all cords, especially those under rugs or furniture, to ensure they’re not damaged. Frayed or damaged cords pose a fire hazard and should be discarded immediately. If the cable is still serviceable but doesn’t stay put without getting in the way, secure it with a twist tie at both ends or tape down each end so it will stay put, then contact electrical contractors.

Replace Worn-Out Electrical Appliances

Frayed wires and cords could cause a fire and should be replaced immediately. Also, pay attention to any cables running through high traffic areas where they may be stepped on or pinched by furniture. This damage can also lead to a fire hazard. If you notice any of your cords are damaged or frayed, make sure to have electrical contractors replace them immediately.

Have electrical contractors install power strips and surge protectors with circuit breakers or fuses to ensure that your devices aren’t overloaded. Cluttered power strips can generate heat, leading to a fire hazard if they’re not adequately ventilated. Make sure any power strip you use has built-in overload protection, and try to avoid running multiple power strips together to ensure you’re not overloading an outlet or circuit breaker.

Upgrade to A Surge Protector

A surge protector is designed to protect electrical devices from a power surge that can cause massive damage. Unlike a power strip, a surge protector contains circuitry that will stop the flow of electricity when it detects a power surge; that’s why it’s important to have electrical contractors install them.

Even when they’re not turned on or plugged into the wall, many electronics have small amounts of power running through them. Power surges can damage these electronics and end up costing your money.

Have A Professional Electrician Inspect Your Electrical System Regularly

It would be best to have electrical contractors inspect your wiring, outlets, and safety features at least once per year. If you have an older home, it’s a good idea to have it checked more frequently because older homes often have antiquated electrical systems that aren’t up to modern safety standards.

Install an Arc Fault Circuit Breaker

An arc fault circuit breaker (AFCI) constantly monitors the flow of electricity in your home. It shuts off if it detects dangerous fluctuation levels or voltage loss along the wires or circuits. The device helps prevent fires by quickly cutting off the power supply before any damage can occur. Electrical contractors have vast knowledge in installing AFCIs safely and securely.

Hire a Reputable Electrical Contractor Today

In the long run, taking the time to protect your electrical system from fire damage adequately is well worth the effort. Not only will you avoid potentially life-threatening circumstances, but you’ll also save your valuable possessions. If you’re concerned about how this relates to your electrical wiring and potential fire damage, don’t hesitate to contact Tioga Contractors – Arlington, TX, for help from our licensed electrical contractors. At the very least, ask them if they want their electrical systems protected from fire damage.

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As you’re taking down those outdoor holiday lights or putting away decorations inside, are you thinking about how many extension cords you’re using? It’s a great starting point for taking a look at the ways you can have our electrical contractor service at Tioga Contractors in Irving, TX upgrade and expand your home’s electrical wiring to modernize it and increase your safety. The risk of electrical shock is an important concern, but homeowners often don’t realize that, according to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical causes are among the top three origins of home structure fires, many with tragic outcomes. As your professional electrical contractor, we take your family’s safety very seriously. Our knowledge and experience can help catch electrical safety issues, even hidden ones, and our skills ensure that the work you have us do is done carefully and done right.

Start with an Electrical Inspection If You Aren’t Sure

As a top local electrical contractor, our team members have broad experience in electrical wiring and equipment, from commercial use to residential power for basic homes and large, feature-rich residences. We also know a lot about electrician practices in the area over many decades, and the different ways that they wired and upgraded local homes. When we perform an electrical inspection for you, we check wiring and connection styles and materials, capacity matches from the fuse box or circuit breakers to the wire size and outlet type, and special concerns like outdoor wiring methods.

We also make note of variations from current electrical code, many of which are quite acceptable legally due to “grandfathering,” but may be worth talking about for your family’s safety. We’ll also look for signs of damage to your home’s wiring and fixtures, from creatures living in your fuse box to water damage to the wires. When it comes time to talk about the results, we can provide information about how we can help you not only get safer electrically but also meet your family’s needs with improvements that our electrical staff can quote for you. We’re here for you.

Instead of Creative Solutions to Power Needs, How About Safe Ones?

In the past, there have been many devices available to make creative use of existing wiring, including two-prong adapters for three-prong plugs, expansion adapters that change one outlet into three, and even devices that screw into light bulb sockets to provide a two-prong outlet instead. There’s also the familiar extension cord and its cousin, the power strip, still in common use today. These are all solutions to problems that can be better addressed with permanent changes or additions to your home’s wiring and fixtures, including a larger number of outlets in your rooms to meet modern power and access needs. Electrical contractors see amazingly risky uses of these devices, including “permanently installed” extension cords stapled to the wall, combinations of adapters or extensions creating a snake’s nest of cords, and outdoor use of devices that were never meant to get wet.

Wiring Capacity and Durability Are Important for Fire Prevention

Your home’s permanent wiring is designed to carry a specific maximum amount of current, with a fuse or circuit breaker rated at that amount as protection. When a device such as a blow dryer, microwave, or space heater is connected using any available extension cords it may work, and even be drawing less than the circuit is designed for, but the weak link is often the extension cord. When high power devices are connected through these, the extension cord is often rated for less.

Multiple extension cords for greater length is an even bigger problem, as capacity is further reduced. The problem is that the wiring is likely to heat up, and if it gets worn, it could heat up a lot. Extension cords are often subject to foot traffic, vacuuming, and other potentially damaging activities. Putting them under a rug might help a little, but it might not prevent damage and it definitely will hide it so you won’t realize there’s a problem. When our electrical contractor installs the wiring you need, you can conveniently plug into the wall and use the power you need, without taking risks and creating unsightly tangles of cords.

An Improvement on Power Strip Protection

Power strips provide advantages over extension cords, in that they usually have more durable and shorter wires, built-in protection from circuit breakers to surge protection, and the convenience of a single “off” switch to help save energy when you’re not using the devices that are plugged into it. Did you know that most electronics draws power even when it’s off? The reasons include chargers that are always at the ready, AV devices that are waiting for a remote control signal, and computers that are in a “sleep” mode ready to wake up quickly without having to go through the boot process. Almost everything electronic these days has some reason to keep drawing power, and it can add up.

The power strip also may contain a surge protection device, and that’s where as an electrical contractor we can do better. Whole house surge protection is now available, covering all devices in your home whether they’re on a power strip or not. That means the electronics in your fridge and laundry appliances are protected, for example. Our electrical contractor team can also provide whole-house lighting arrester protection, with the same coverage and protection for your home’s circuits.

Your Caring, Conscientious Electrical Contractor in Irving, TX

Tioga Contractors in Irving, TX watches out for your family’s safety when we’re working on your home’s electrical wiring, fixtures, and power. We have decades of experience in protecting our community’s homes and businesses, and we hope you’ll look to us for preventive care, professional electrical contractor services, and useful information about ways you can use modern electrical system improvements to enjoy life more. Give us a call and get to know all we can do for you.

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In Irving, TX, it is very common to hear a person referring to an electrical contractor as an electrician and vice versa. These two terms are often used interchangeably and may imply the same thing to a layperson.

However, there is a significant difference between a contractor and an electrician that we will later see in this blog. Most states even have different licensing requirements for a contractor and electrician.

At one point, a contractor was seen as a licensed top electrician or one registered as a contractor with master electricians working under him. But digging deep into the tasks of an electrical contractor enables you to understand that there are much more than these common assumptions.

If you enjoy working with your hands and solving technical issues, you will most likely fit in the contractor job category. The profession has massively grown, and today’s contractors play critical roles in home constructions and other large commercial projects.

At Tioga Contractors, our contractors are not left behind. We have a team of professional and highly qualified staff who will design, install, and maintain any wiring and electrical system within your home and business premises.

Let’s now have a look at who a contractor is and what their job entails.

What Is an Electrical Contractor?

The easiest and most understandable definition of an electrical contractor to a layman is a person or firm that carries out specialized electrical construction tasks. Usually, this type of work involves designing, installing, and maintaining an electrical system.

Some contractors prefer majoring in a particular electrical field, such as either construction or maintenance, while others prefer focusing on both. Whichever field they choose to settle in, what matters is their competence and workmanship.

It is the duty of a contractor to ensure that they carry out their tasks in a safe, effective, and environment-friendly manner.

A professional contractor should also be competent enough in the field to clearly read and interpret diagrams and blueprints to understand the layout for breaker boxes and wiring for the project they are undertaking.

What Does an Electrical Contractor Do?

This contractor is versatile in his field and can handle any electrical task involving installing and maintaining an electrical unit, depending on their area of expertise. The maintenance tasks include inspecting appliances, repairing or replacing worn-out parts, and restoring function to electrical systems. The contractor also has to handle heavy equipment and powerful tools and install wiring for your home.

Whenever you hire Tioga Contractors, our artisans will start the project and foresee the electrical construction till the end while giving professional input regarding the constructability of the design and offering changes to make the design workable. Providing a workable alternative plan with better details is crucial, especially before the approval of the project.

Once you approve the design and budget and provide permit and liability insurance, our electrical contractor can proceed with the work schedule and the construction process.

Aside from installing and maintaining electrical systems, our Irving, TX, contractors also offer administrative duties and serve as customer service agents. The administrative and service duties involve client consulting, appointment scheduling, and paperwork handling.

Electrical Contractor Versus an Electrician

As mentioned before, sometimes, people and businesses tend to use these terms interchangeably. Generally, an electrician is a technician trained and licensed to do any electrical work. They are versatile and may offer freelance services, work for an electrical company, or work under a contractor. Tioga Contractors is privileged to work with a team of competent electricians offering a range of electrical services for your home and business.

Therefore, while an electrician often refers to an individual entity, an electrical contractor implies a business. Most electricians always start as trainees.

Before beginning their apprenticeship program, electricians should have attended a trade school. Depending on the trainee’s state, some may need to have an apprentice license. Once they complete their electrical repair and installation training, they can now have a license and work as a journeyman. They can then choose to further their studies and become master electricians.

An Electrical Contractor’s Work Environment

At Tioga Contractors, our contractors work in different settings under diverse situations. Depending on their field of expertise, some artisans may work in home settings while others work for businesses and industries. Others also work on construction sites with heavy and powerful machines.

Like any other technical field, the contractor’s work environment may come with many challenges. Sometimes the workstation may be too small for the contractor to comfortably fit in, while in some cases, they may stand on their feet or kneel for hours to finish their electrical tasks. In other cases, they may work in offices and handle a lot of paperwork.

All licensed contractors at Tioga contractors proudly carry out their tasks in whichever condition and field they have majored in. Due to our workers’ competency and efficiency, we offer the best electrical services.

Basic Skill Requirements for an Electrical Contractor

To be a certified and efficient contractor, it is necessary to combine hard and soft skills.

Technical knowledge will enable you to work safely with any electrical unit while critical thinking makes it possible to gather information, think wisely through electrical problems, and develop suitable strategies to solve these problems.

Another essential skill for a contractor is attention to detail that quickly notices hazards and avoids dangerous situations. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are also necessary when working with other professionals and consulting with clients.

Contact Tioga Contractors Today!

Looking for an electrical contractor? Call Tioga Contractors for the best trained and qualified electricians in Irving, TX, for all your electrical needs.

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If and when you run into electrical issues, you need to put your trust in a company that has a track record of fixing problems, both big and small. Our licensed and certified team of electricians has seen a little bit of everything and is skilled and experienced when it comes to resolving these issues. We are proud to extend our electrical services to our residential, commercial, and industrial Arlington, TX customers. We aim to be the Electrical Contractors you can count on time after time. Our Electrical Contractors always aim to get the job done right for our customers.

Customer Service You Can Count On

Our customers come first, plain and simple. We look at each and every one of our customers as family, and family always comes first. We will always take care of family first. If you’re experiencing electrical issues at 3 AM, on Christmas eve, or a Sunday morning, call us. We’re here for you, 24/7, 365 days a year. Our licensed and skilled electricians quickly adapt to new technologies by using cutting-edge technology, up-to-date tools, best practices, and a commitment to top-notch customer service. We take pride in providing second to none customer service. Our electricians show up, assess the situation, and take steps to resolve your electrical issues. Our Electrical Contractors show up to provide the best electrical services for our customers. We understand that not all Electrical Contractors are equal. This is why we aim to continue our legacy of stellar service to our customers.

Electrical Wiring of All Types

We provide a full range of electrical services to our Arlington, TX customers. Our Electrical Contractors install lighting, both exterior and interior. We also replace and repair electrical outlets, switches, AC, and heat circuits. Fuses and breakers are also an area of expertise for our electricians. If you have a home or office that needs appliance hookups and doesn’t have them, our electricians can get the job done. We even provide Electrical Remodeling and Additions for both residential and commercial customers. Overhead & Underground Services are also no problem for our electricians. Our team of electricians installs, replaces, and repairs many other electrical issues for our customers.

Install Backup Generators and Auto Transfer Switches (ATS)

Our Electrical Contractors are well versed in a wide variety of different electrical issues both big and small. Our customers can count on us to install backup generators to keep their homes and businesses powered. If you’re a business owner, power outages can throw a real monkey wrench in your normal operations. This is one of the many reasons why our round-the-clock service is part of our commitment to second-to-none customer service. Our electricians can install backup generators to prepare for those unpredictable power outages.

We also install Auto Transfer Switches (ATS) as well. Our Electrical Contractors understand that automatic transfer switches are the brains of your entire electrical system. Once we install these automatic transfer switches, your electrical system can switch between your utility to generate consistent power. However, when there is a power outage, an ATS will automatically switch or toggle to your backup generator. Our customers deserve the best. They also deserve access to service when they need it most.

Commercial and Industrial Service

Our commercial and industrial services are a great help to our business owners. Our electricians do it all. We can perform ground-up construction, remodels, and additions for electrical work. If you’re building new office space, our electricians can install the wiring and anything else electrical that you may need for additions and remodels as well. We also cater to the needs of our industrial customers as well. We can provide wiring and electrical services for automotive and paint booths, food distribution set-ups, the electrical needs for marine, and airport concessions. We can provide electrical service for a wide variety of different situations. You can trust our team of expert electricians with all of your needs.

Security and Emergency Services

Regardless of whether you run a business or own a home, security lighting is important. If you work late at the office you need to know that there is adequate lighting when you walk out to your car. Seasonal lighting may also be a focus for both home and business owners. Some residential customers may enjoy putting up exterior lights for Christmas. We are well versed when it comes to seasonal lighting as well. Some businesses decorate their exterior business premises with seasonal lighting as well. We do it all for our customers. Our electricians can also provide emergency power services, service upgrades, and code corrections. We are troubleshooting specialists. Our skilled and experienced Electrical Contractors have the experience and know-how to resolve a variety of different electrical issues in different kinds of spaces and places. When you’re facing an electrical emergency, you need to trust the services of tried and proven Electrical Contractors. Our electricians uphold our level of excellence for our customers.

Code Corrections

We take pride in our electrical services. Even if you’re a business owner who’s leasing space, we can provide electrical service for leased space as well. We can take care of all of the wiring issues for leased space as well. Our design and build projects are helpful for both business owners and residential customers as well. We can provide motor controls as well. Our electricians can provide a wide variety of different services regardless of the space. We help with new builds for homeowners and business owners. Our customers don’t have to want for anything. Our electricians will be your Johnny on the Spot and take care of any electrical issue you may be having. Many of us have had work done by shade tree electricians who may not have known exactly what they were doing. Faulty wiring and an array of other electrical issues and problems may have ensued. No worries, we can perform code corrections for faulty or unsafe wiring dilemmas. As we’ve said before, we do it all. Entrust the care of all your electrical services to our electricians. We want nothing less for our family.

Regardless of what your electrical issues are, big or small, our Electrical Contractors can take care of you. Our electricians show up for our customers. Business owners and homeowners alike can take pride in trusting all of their electrical issues to a company with a proven track record of excellence. If you need a backup generator for your home or office, or simply want to install lighting on your backyard deck. We can do it. Give us a call. Remember, no electrical issue is too small. Our Electrical Contractors show up and show out for Arlington, TX customers. Give us at Tioga Contractors a shout. We’re ready to handle all of your electrical needs.

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